Semaglutide
Medication-Assisted Weight Loss Shots
Medication-Assisted Weight Loss Shots
What is Semaglutide?
Originally designed to help lower blood glucose levels in order to reduce the risk of heart attacks in diabetics, Semaglutide is a revolutionary weight loss drug that can be perfect for those struggling to lose weight through the traditional routes of diet and exercise.
Semaglutide as a Weight Loss Solution
Semaglutide for weight loss offers rapid weight loss through regular injections of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1), which increases the body’s production of insulin, inhibits glucagon, and decreases appetite. Patients with successful results can expect weight loss in the 10lbs. per month range with some losing even more. The more weight a patient has to lose, the faster our Semaglutide weight loss shots work.
Weight loss and mental health are intricately related. One affects the other, which is why at New Pathways we are excited to provide Semaglutide treatments as part of our holistic and comprehensive mental health facility. Our staff is ready to answer your questions about this promising new medication-assisted weight-loss treatment option – reach-out to us for more information.
Watch New Pathways Clinic Discuss Semaglutide Weight Loss Shots!
Semaglutide Has The Highest Success Rates of Any Weight Loss Shot or Drug
With a 70% success rate, Semaglutide results are comparable to receiving bariatric surgery. No other weight loss drug on the market competes with the efficacy of this class of drug or the magnitude of Semaglutide’s success.
In a 68-week trial of 1,961 patients with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) or who were overweight (BMI 27 kg/m2-29.9 kg/m2), patients were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to either Semaglutide or a placebo, both in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet (~500 kcal/day deficit) and increased physical activity (recommended to a minimum of 150 min/week).
The average weight loss sustained at 68 weeks:
Semaglutide: 14.9% (~35 lbs)
Placebo: 2.4% (~6 lbs)
Patients who achieved ≥5% weight loss at 68 weeks:
Semaglutide: 83.5% of patients
Placebo: 31.1% of patients
In the trial, ~1 out of every 2 patients achieved ≥15% weight loss
Semaglutide Treatment Options at New Pathways Clinic
Semaglutide treatments are normally administered through subcutaneous injection, a method of administering the drug with a short, small needle into the tissue layer between the skin and the muscle.
Our injectable weight loss shots are needed every 7 days and are first administered in the clinic and eventually at home if the patient desires and has demonstrated to our medical professionals that they can administer the injections safely on their own. For the first 16 weeks, the drug is introduced slowly into the patient’s system, with week 17 reaching the maximum dosage for maintenance.
Semaglutide for Weight Loss – Is it Safe?
As medication-assisted weight loss solutions, Semaglutide treatments can produce side effects as well as a few rare contraindications in some individuals. Overall, Semaglutide weight loss shots are extremely well-tolerated by the large majority of patients after the body has acclimated to either drug for a few weeks.
Common side effects include:
- Nausea (Most Common)
- Nausea can be reduced with the following:
- Eating smaller meals daily
- Receiving subQ or IM B12 dosed at 500-1000mcg with the weekly Semaglutide injection
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal Cramping
- Constipation
Some specific conditions in which taking Semaglutide may be unsafe include:
- Family or personal history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
Please talk to your doctor if you are unsure if taking Semaglutide is right for you.
Insurance Coverage and Pricing for Semaglutide
A single dose of brand name Semaglutide can be unaffordable even with insurance coverage. Patients who are pre-diabetic or diabetic are more likely to be covered than those who are not. New Pathways Clinic can help determine if Semaglutide would be covered by your insurance, we specialize in helping patients who are not eligible for insurance coverage.
While the patented injection pens for Semaglutide is costly, Semaglutide itself, as a standalone drug, is not nearly as expensive. In addition to being an affordable drug, New Pathways Clinic provides cost-effective access to this treatment by making Semaglutide available for $100 an injection, with comprehensive psychiatric and medical support to make this revolutionary treatment accessible.
Choose New Pathways Clinic for Medication-Assisted Weight Loss
Sean Boyd, PMHNP, has experience both in medicine and psychiatry, with a passion for mental health. He is ready to help guide you through this exciting new treatment for weight loss. With his background in Mental Health, Critical Care, Addiction, and Dual Diagnosis, Sean provides comprehensive weight loss solutions to New Pathways patients and members.
Take our True/False quiz to learn if Semaglutide weight loss shots can work for your weight-loss needs.
Contact Us
At New Pathways Clinic, we are always sensitive to each patient’s unique history and needs. We will never make you feel uncomfortable or unwelcome in our care. Reach out to us today to find out if Semaglutide weight-loss shots are right for you.
Please click the boxes to the right of each question below to learn the answers to these FAQs on Semaglutide.
- What is Semaglutide?
- What conditions is Semaglutide used to treat?
- How does Semaglutide work for weight loss?
- Are there side effects to these drugs to be aware of?
- Is Semaglutide addictive?
- Once one loses weight with one of these drugs, do they need to remain on them permanently to keep the weight off?
- Can one overdose on Semaglutide weight loss shots?
- It’s been said that these drugs were originally designed to help those with Diabetes. Am I taking the drug away from someone with Diabetes by using it at New Pathways Clinic?
- Are Semaglutide weight loss shots available over the counter?
- Can Semaglutide be used in combination with other medications?
- How long does it take for Semaglutide to start working?
- Are there any dietary restrictions or considerations while taking Semaglutide?
- Can Semaglutide be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
- What is the recommended dosage and duration of treatment for Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) that mimics the action of the natural hormone GLP-1 in the body. GLP-1 is released by the intestines in response to food intake and helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin release and reducing glucagon secretion. Semaglutide is administered as an injectable medication.
We only prescribe Semaglutide for weight loss. However, it is also used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide is also being studied off-label for alcohol addiction and inflammatory conditions.
Semaglutide produce amazing weight loss results by moderating your digestive process and cravings. Specifically, they are responsible for the following effects:
- Increased sensation of feeling full: Semaglutide acts on the GLP-1 receptors in the brain, specifically the hypothalamus, which regulates appetite and feelings of satiety. By activating these receptors, semaglutide induces a sense of fullness, leading to reduced appetite and decreased food intake.
- Slower Gastric Emptying: GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide also slow down the rate at which the stomach empties its contents into the small intestine. This delay in gastric emptying can contribute to increased feelings of fullness and prolonged satisfaction after eating, further reducing food consumption.
- Reduced Caloric Intake: The combination of increased satiety and slowed gastric emptying results in a decreased desire to eat, and a lower intake of calories overall.
- Weight Set Point Regulation: Semaglutide may also have an impact on the body’s weight set point—the weight range that the body tends to maintain. By influencing the body’s regulatory systems, semaglutide helps shift the weight set point to a lower level, making it easier for some individuals to lose weight and maintain the new lower weight.
Semaglutide, like any medication, may cause side effects in some individuals. The side effects can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience them. These side effects are usually mild and may improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. We also can provide additional medications to treat them.
Common side effects of semaglutide may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Constipation
No, there is no evidence to suggest that Semaglutide is addictive. Semaglutide are not classified as addictive substances, nor do they have any known properties that would lead to addiction or dependence.
Weight loss is a complex process influenced by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and individual metabolism. For many people, maintaining weight loss over the long term can be challenging, regardless of the method used to achieve it – whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or other interventions.
When considering the use of Semaglutide for weight loss, it’s essential to work closely with a healthcare professional who can provide guidance and support throughout the weight loss journey. They can help design a comprehensive plan that includes not only the use of medication but also lifestyle changes, such as adopting a balanced diet, increasing physical activity, and establishing healthy habits.
Yes, Semaglutide can cause overdose if taken in excessive amounts. This medication is prescribed at specific doses based on individual needs and medical conditions. Taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to serious health consequences such as:
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Severe diarrhea
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Dehydration
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Severe abdominal pain
If you suspect an overdose or experience any concerning symptoms after taking Semaglutide, seek immediate medical attention or visit the nearest emergency room.
No, Semaglutide is used off-label for weight loss and are provided by a special pharmacy that distributes from a separate supply than what is prescribed to patients with diabetes. The brand name version of Semaglutide that is most well known is prescribed for people with diabetes.
No, Semaglutide is not available over the counter. It is a prescription drug, meaning you cannot obtain it without a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Yes. Semaglutide is generally safe to use in combination with almost all other medications. They can also be combined with other appetite suppressants for maximum effects. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking before starting Semaglutide or any new medication.
It works extremely quickly! The effects on the moderation of appetite and digestion will be noticed within hours of receiving the injection. The average amount of weight a patient loses in the first month is around 10lbs. If your appetite is unchanged, you may need a higher dose to get the desired results.
There are no dietary restrictions but we encourage a healthy, well-balanced diet while being on Semaglutide. While you do not need to regulate which types of food you eat on these drugs, there are some considerations for how you eat. We would recommend the following:
- Consistent Meal Timing: Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonists, which can affect how the body responds to food. It’s important to have regular meal times and not skip meals, as this can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and minimize the risk of hypoglycemia.
- Balanced Meals: Aim for balanced meals that include a variety of nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. A balanced diet can help support overall health and provide essential nutrients.
- Carbohydrate Intake: Carbohydrates can significantly impact blood sugar levels. Work with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to determine an appropriate carbohydrate intake that matches your individual needs and medication regimen.
- Avoid Skipping Medications: Take Semaglutide as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Skipping doses may lead to fluctuating blood sugar levels.
- Alcohol Intake: Be cautious with alcohol consumption, as it can affect blood sugar levels and may interact with certain diabetes medications. Discuss alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider to determine what is safe and appropriate for you.
- Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as advised by your healthcare provider. This can help you and your doctor make necessary adjustments to your medication and dietary plan as needed.
- Hydration: Stay adequately hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can affect blood sugar levels, so it’s important to drink fluids regularly.
Semaglutide is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The medication is pregnancy category B, which means there may be some animal studies showing no risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
It’s essential for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their condition safely. During pregnancy, blood sugar control is crucial for both the health of the mother and for the developing baby and thus it is not recommended, since both drugs affect blood sugar levels.
The duration of and dosage of treatment with Semaglutide may vary based on individual health factors as well as the response to the medication. You can work closely with our medical staff to ensure that the treatment plan is tailored to your specific health needs and goals.